Best HP EliteBook x360 2019 Docking Stations in 2019

There are a lot of PC accessories on the market, and here at Windows Central, we do our best to weed out the great from the not-so-great. We've even tested and reviewed some great docking stations to help you get the best possible option.

Our pick

Connect to your laptop via Thunderbolt 3 and get access to a bunch of ports that make it easy to set up a workstation. The inclusion of a detachable audio module gives you the ability to make and take calls, and up to 100W of power back to your laptop keeps it topped up.

Who should buy this docking station

If you'd like a high-quality docking station to match your EliteBook x360 1030, check out HP's G2 dock with audio module. It has 12 total ports and a removable audio module perfect for anyone who wants to set up a professional workstation.

Is it a good time to buy this docking station?

This is HP's premier Thunderbolt 3 docking station and is expected to remain relevant thanks to smart port selection. If you need a dock for your EliteBook x360 1030, this will make a great choice.

Reasons to buy

Lots of ports

Available with audio module

Excellent performance

Up to 100W charging power

Includes lock slot

Reasons not to buy

Cheaper options are available

Options with more ports are available

The complete solution when it comes to docking stations

HP has created a Thunderbolt 3 docking station that does more than just add a bunch of ports. Thanks to an included audio module that sits on top of the dock — you can also just buy the dock without extra module for about $55 less — you can answer calls and listen to quality audio without the need for a headset or a laptop directly in front of you.

A small docking station that offers more than just ports.

The G2 docking station is a compact piece of hardware that won't take up much space on your desk, yet it offers quite a few ports, including three USB-C, three USB-A 3.0, Thunderbolt 3, two DisplayPort, VGA, RJ45 Ethernet, and a 3.5 mm audio jack. It supports up to two 4K displays at 60 Hz so that you can set up a high-res workstation, plus it delivers up to 100W of charging power back to the host laptop.

Since we're talking about a business-oriented laptop, know that the HP G2 dock supports Wake-on-LAN (WoL), PXE boot, and MAC address passthrough, all features that make remote management easier. If you plan on leaving this dock at the office, a built-in Kensington lock slot ensures that it won't easily go missing,

Alternatives to the HP Thunderbolt Dock G2

HP's Thunderbolt Dock G2 is no doubt an outstanding option, but its price can be quite steep for a lot of people. Its extra features might not be quite what everyone needs, but there are a couple of worthwhile alternatives available.

Runner-up

When connected to your HP EliteBook x360 1030 with your choice of 0.7- or 2-meter cable, it will deliver up to 85W of charging power to keep the laptop's battery topped up. If you're interested in multiple external displays, the TS3 Plus will handle dual 4K with ease. Alongside DisplayPort, there's a UHS-II SD card reader, five USB-A 3.1, two USB-C 3.1, two Thunderbolt 3, Ethernet, S/PDIF, and 3.5 mm jacks for audio in and out.

HP's EliteBook x360 1030 G3 hangs on to a USB-A port, so this Plugable docking station is a compatible cheaper option. Use it for 1440p or 1080p external displays via DVI and HDMI, and take advantage of four USB-A 2.0, Ethernet, and two USB-A 3.0.

Bottom line

If you want the best docking station that takes full advantage of what your HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3 has to offer, seriously consider picking up HP's Thunderbolt Dock G2. However, if it's a bit too pricey or not quite what you're looking for, there are some quality alternatives.

Credits — The team that worked on this guide

Cale Hunt is a full-time writer for Windows Central, focusing mainly on PC hardware and VR. He is an avid PC gamer and multi-platform user, and when he has some free time you can usually find him practicing guitar or reorganizing his ever-growing library. If you hear him say "Sorry!" it's only because he's Canadian.

Rich Edmonds is a staff reviewer at Windows Central, which means he tests out more software and hardware than he cares to remember. Joining Mobile Nations in 2010, you can usually find him inside a PC case tinkering around when not at a screen fighting with Grammarly to use British words. Hit him up on Twitter: @RichEdmonds.